Potters Bar fraudster fined for failing to declare inheritance to Hertsmere Borough Council

A woman who failed to tell the council she had inherited a large sum of money has been found guilty of benefit fraud.

Paula Findlay, of Meadow Way, Potters Bar, was left £49,000 in December 2008 - but failed to declare this in official documents.

As a result, Hertsmere Borough Council overpaid her with £9,340 in housing benefit and £658 in council tax benefit.

She pleaded guilty at St Albans Magistrates Court and was fined £580 and ordered to pay £85 costs and a £58 victim surcharge.

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Ms Findlay will also have to pay back the money owed.

Councillor John Graham, who is responsible for finance and property, said: "This case shows how important it is to ensure that you notify the council of any change of circumstances so that benefits are paid fairly and in accordance with people's needs."

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